EU Rejects U.S. Plan to Limit Ukraine’s Military Amid Tensions

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has firmly rejected a recent U.S. proposal aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, arguing that it would undermine the country’s security and embolden Russian aggression. During a press conference at the G20 summit in South Africa on Sunday, von der Leyen outlined her concerns regarding the framework put forward by Donald Trump’s administration.

The American plan, which suggests that Ukraine should make territorial concessions to Russia, reduce the size of its military by half, and provide Washington with a 50 percent share of reconstruction profits, has drawn significant criticism. Von der Leyen stated, “Any credible and sustainable peace plan should first and foremost stop the killing and end the war, while not sowing the seeds for a future conflict.”

EU’s Criteria for Peace in Ukraine

Von der Leyen highlighted three fundamental criteria that the European Union considers essential for any peace agreement. Firstly, she emphasized that borders cannot be altered through force. Secondly, she insisted that Ukraine, as a sovereign nation, should not face constraints on its military capabilities that could leave it vulnerable to future attacks. “This would undermine European security,” she explained. Lastly, she stressed the importance of the EU’s role in facilitating peace, asserting that Ukraine has the right to determine its own future and has chosen a European path.

The discussions at the summit come as EU leaders prepare for further talks on Monday during a joint visit to Angola. António Costa, President of the European Council, acknowledged U.S. efforts to mediate the conflict but described the current proposal as merely a starting point that needs further refinement.

Concerns Over U.S. Proposal

Critics across European capitals and within Ukraine have expressed concerns that the 28-point plan effectively bypasses key stakeholders in its development. Many believe the proposal could inadvertently reward Russian aggression and open the door for future invasions. The sentiment is that a sound resolution must involve comprehensive discussions that include the voices of those most affected by the conflict.

In recent developments, Trump has seemingly softened his earlier stance, retracting a Thursday deadline for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to accept the terms of the U.S. proposal. He remarked that the deal presented is “not my final offer,” indicating a willingness to negotiate further.

As the situation evolves, the EU remains committed to ensuring that any peace process respects Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, emphasizing the need for a resolution that provides lasting stability in the region.